He was here already? I asked, that bruised feeling hitting me again at the mention of his name.

Felix’s eyebrows drew together. Yeah. Just left. Why?

I shook the feeling off, telling myself it didn’t matter. The job was done. Cal was gone.

I cleared the lump of regret from my throat. No reason. So, um, I got your messages yesterday.

He narrowed his eyes at me. You know I oughtta fire you for that stunt you pulled.

I gulped. Yeah, about that…

But he didn’t let me finish, instead plowing ahead. But considering the story of the century Allie just showed me, I won’t.

I shut my mouth with a click. Oh. Good. Wow, saved by the blonde. Who’d a thunk it?

I must say, I’m incredibly impressed. And surprised. Turns out you’re one hell of an investigative reporter.

I couldn’t help it. A big goofy grin spread across my face. Really?

‘Really?’ Are you kidding? You’ve single-handedly solved two murders in the last week. Listen, how would you like a bump from gossip to real news? I could use someone as savvy as you on Hollywood’s front lines. He paused. Then winced only a little as he added, I could maybe even consider a small raise.

Wow. Felix talking raise was like the Grinch talking Christmas cookies. I took a moment to savor this rare occasion. However, as flattered as I was, I shook my head.

Thanks. But no thanks.

Felix opened his mouth to protest, but it was my turn to plow ahead. Hey, I’ll admit I rocked this story. There went that goofy smile again. But my love lies with gossip. My column is my baby. And I couldn’t imagine seeing her in anyone else’s hands. Besides, the celebs in this town trust me to rake, break, and make. I can’t let them down.

Felix shut his mouth, a rueful grin tugging the corner of his mouth. Okay. You win, Bender. Gossip it is.

Thanks. Oh, but I will take you up on that raise, I added.

Again the slight wince, but he covered it well. Done. And in celebration of my star gossip columnist not only still being alive, but also getting us a story that’s sure to boost circulation by at last 20 percent, I’m taking you to lunch.

Wow. Felix offering to shell out cash twice in a row? Had Hell frozen over? Seriously? As in, you’re buying?

He nodded. Absolutely. Then he crossed the newsroom, grabbed the Swear Pig from my desk, and turned it upside down, dumping a pile of quarters onto his desk. There’s got to be at least twenty bucks here. Where do you want to go?

I couldn’t help but laugh. Tell you what, I have somewhere to be today. How about a rain check? Cool? I asked.

Felix shrugged. Suit yourself.

I turned to go.

Hey, Bender? Felix called.